Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Psychology is ideal for students interested in understanding human behavior, mental processes, and emotional well-being. Graduates gain skills in research, data analysis, and interpersonal communication, preparing them for careers in counseling, social services, human resources, or mental health advocacy, as well as for advanced studies in clinical psychology or related fields.
Program Overview
Psychology is the scientific study of all aspects of human behavior. Topics studied by psychologists include: brain function, moods and feelings, normal and abnormal thought processes, personality, interactions among people, and many more. Furthermore, a bachelors degree (B.A. and B.S.) in Psychology is a versatile undergraduate degree that helps psychology majors gain a wide range of knowledge and skills. Psychology majors are able to: conduct various types of research, evaluate arguments and make decisions based on evidence, apply research skills to personal and professional domains, take human biases into account when making decisions, convey information effectively in written and oral communication and work in diverse groups to achieve common goal Training in psychology emphasizes research skills, critical thinking abilities, and communication skills. Because these competencies are relevant to many domains, training in psychology provides a good foundation for many different careers.
Related Careers
Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology have a versatile foundation that can lead to many career paths, both directly related to psychology and in broader fields that value analytical thinking, communication, and interpersonal skills. While many students go on to pursue graduate study, there are also numerous opportunities available with a bachelor’s degree alone. Here are some of the more popular career paths:
With a Bachelor's Degree:
- Human Resources Specialist
- Behavioral Health Technician or Assistant
- Case Manager
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Market Research Analyst
- Psychiatric Technician
- Youth Counselor or Residential Program Staff
- Career Advisor or Academic Advisor
- Sales Representative
- Social Services Coordinator
With Additional Graduate Education:
- Clinical Psychologist
- School Psychologist
- Licensed Counselor or Therapist (LPC, LMFT, etc.)
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
- Neuropsychologist
- Researcher or University Faculty
- Psychiatrist (requires medical degree)
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What You'll Learn
The Psychology program offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, allowing students to choose a path that aligns with their academic strengths and career interests. Across both tracks, students explore topics such as cognitive processes, emotional development, social behavior, neuroscience, and psychological disorders while developing skills in critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and data interpretation. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
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